How to cook with a baby
How to cook with a baby is a easy Indian recipe that serves 4. 300 calories per serving. Recipe by Imran Ali on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 37 min | Total: 1 hr 2 min
Cost: $10.83 total, $2.71 per serving
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 1 piece Onion (large, finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated)
- 1 cup Tomato Puree (canned or jarred)
- 2 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (for curry base)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 0.5 teaspoon Chili Powder (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup Water or Chicken Broth (low‑sodium broth preferred)
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- 12 ounce Okra (fresh, sliced into ½‑inch pieces; pat dry)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (for okra stir‑fry)
- 0.5 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground Turmeric (for okra)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (for okra)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice (optional, adds brightness)
Instructions
Prepare All Ingredients
Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, cut the chicken into bite‑size pieces, and slice the okra into ½‑inch rounds. Pat the okra dry with a paper towel to reduce slime.
Time: PT10M
Sauté Onions
Heat 2 tbsp oil in the large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: medium heat
Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium heat
Toast Spices
Add turmeric, ground cumin, garam masala, and chili powder. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds to release aromas.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium heat
Incorporate Tomato Puree
Pour in the tomato puree, mix well, and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: medium heat
Add Chicken and Liquid
Add the chicken pieces, stir to coat with the sauce, then pour in 1 cup water or broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium heat
Simmer Chicken
Reduce heat to low simmer, cover partially, and cook for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: low simmer
Start Okra Stir‑Fry
While the curry simmers, heat 1 tbsp oil in the small skillet over medium‑high heat.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium‑high heat
Pop Mustard and Cumin Seeds
Add mustard seeds; when they start to pop (about 10 seconds), add cumin seeds and turmeric, stirring quickly.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: medium‑high heat
Cook Okra
Add the sliced okra to the skillet, spread in a single layer, and stir‑fry for 8 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: medium‑high heat
Season Okra
Season the okra with ½ tsp salt and drizzle 1 tsp lemon juice; toss to combine.
Time: PT1M
Finish Curry
Taste the chicken curry, adjust salt if needed, and stir in chopped cilantro.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Plate the chicken curry and serve the sautéed okra on the side. Enjoy while hot.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 300
- Protein
- 25 g
- Carbohydrates
- 15 g
- Fat
- 12 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Thighs: Chicken Breast, Turkey Thighs
- Instead of Onion: Shallot, Leeks
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic paste
- Instead of Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger (½ tsp)
- Instead of Tomato Puree: Crushed tomatoes, Fresh tomatoes blended
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Sunflower oil
- Instead of Chili Powder: Paprika, Cayenne pepper (¼ tsp)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Water or Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: Parsley
- Instead of Okra: Frozen okra (thawed)
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Small Skillet
- Measuring Spoons
- Small Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Adding and toasting the spices (step 4) to develop flavor.
- Simmering the chicken until fully cooked (step 7).
- Cooking the okra quickly over high heat to avoid slime (step 10).
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a heavy‑bottomed pot to prevent scorching of the tomato base.
- For extra depth, add a splash of coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- If you like extra heat, increase chili powder or add a sliced green chili.
Troubleshooting
Curry is too thick.
Add a little water or broth, 1‑2 tbsp at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Okra is slimy.
Pat okra dry before cooking and cook over medium‑high heat without covering.
Chicken is undercooked.
Continue simmering uncovered until the meat is no longer pink and reaches 165°F.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store curry and okra in separate airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze curry in portions for up to 2 months; okra does not freeze well.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The curry flavor deepens after refrigeration; reheat gently and add a splash of water if it thickens.
- Okra can be prepared ahead and reheated quickly in a skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chicken curry in Indian cuisine?
Chicken curry is a staple across India, reflecting regional spice blends and cooking methods. It evolved from ancient Ayurvedic practices that combined meat with aromatic spices for flavor and preservation.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken curry in Indian cuisine?
North Indian versions often use tomato‑based gravies and garam masala, while South Indian curries may feature coconut milk and curry leaves. Each region adjusts heat level and spice ratios to local tastes.
How is okra (bhindi) traditionally served in Indian meals?
Okra is commonly sautéed with mustard seeds, cumin, and turmeric, served as a dry side dish (bhindi fry) alongside rice or flatbreads. It is prized for its texture and ability to absorb spices.
What occasions or celebrations is chicken curry traditionally associated with in Indian culture?
Chicken curry is a festive dish served at weddings, religious festivals like Diwali, and family gatherings because it can be prepared in large quantities and pairs well with many Indian breads.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Indian chicken curry versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include fresh ginger, garlic, garam masala, and whole spices like cumin and mustard seeds. Substitutes such as ground ginger or pre‑mixed curry powder work, but they alter the depth of flavor.
What other Indian dishes pair well with this low‑maintenance chicken curry and okra side?
Serve with basmati rice, naan or roti, and a simple cucumber raita. A lentil dal or a fresh salad of sliced onions and lemon also complement the meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this chicken curry?
Common errors include over‑cooking the onions until they brown, which adds bitterness, and not simmering the chicken long enough, resulting in undercooked meat. Also, adding too much water can dilute the flavor.
Why does this recipe use a low‑simmer for the chicken instead of a rapid boil?
A low simmer gently cooks the chicken, keeping it tender and allowing the spices to meld without breaking down the tomato base, whereas a rapid boil can make the meat tough and cause the sauce to separate.
Can I make this chicken curry ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the curry improves after a few hours in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
What does the YouTube channel Imran Ali specialize in?
The YouTube channel Imran Ali focuses on quick, low‑maintenance home‑cooked meals for busy families, especially mothers, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize minimal active cooking time.
How does the YouTube channel Imran Ali's approach to Indian cooking differ from other Indian cooking channels?
Imran Ali prioritizes ‘stir‑then‑simmer’ techniques that let dishes cook unattended, catering to parents with limited time, whereas many other channels showcase more hands‑on, elaborate preparations.
Last updated: August 30, 2026








